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Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

Gepubliceerd in:

07-07-2017 | Original Paper

Grandparents’ Experience of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Identifying Primary Themes and Needs

Auteurs: Jennifer L. Hillman, Michele C. Wentzel, Connie M. Anderson

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 10/2017

Abstract

Limited information is available regarding the first person perspective of grandparents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In the present study, 1870 grandparents of a child with ASD participated in a nationwide, online, anonymous, 30-minute survey and responded to open-ended questions including their “greatest challenges and greatest joys” as the grandparent of a child on the autism spectrum. A grounded theory approach to qualitative analysis revealed four overarching categories: a Desire for Connection, Barriers to Care, Celebration of Progress, and Personal Reactions. Despite the presence of significant challenges grandparents often experienced positivity in their role, and engaged in radical acceptance of their grandchild as well as transformative insight and advocacy. Specific recommendations are offered to help address grandparents’ needs and capitalize upon their resilience.

vorige artikel Provision of Genetic Services for Autism and its Impact on Spanish Families

volgende artikel Coparenting Competence in Parents of Children with ASD: A Marker of Coparenting Quality

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Titel: Grandparents’ Experience of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Identifying Primary Themes and Needs
Auteurs: Jennifer L. Hillman
Michele C. Wentzel
Connie M. Anderson
Publicatiedatum: 07-07-2017
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 10/2017
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-017-3211-4

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